News Release Archive

Reclamation Announces Above Average Releases for Boysen Reservoir

Media Contact: Mahonri Williams, (307) 261-5624, mlwilliams@usbr.gov

For Release: April 25, 2017

MILLS, Wyo. -- Releases from Boysen Dam to the Wind River are currently at 5,500 cubic feet per second (cfs). Based on current operating projections and the expectation of near record runoff, Boysen Reservoir will be lowered approximately another ten feet to near elevation 4,700 feet in May. Once the snowmelt run-off begins, Boysen Reservoir will be managed to fill the reservoir to an elevation of 4724.5 feet in July. As the reservoir experiences peak run-off, releases from Boysen Dam to the Wind River are expected to reach flows up to 6,500 cfs.

"Steps are being taken to make room for the snowmelt runoff that is expected to come into the Bureau of Reclamation's Boysen Reservoir over the next few months," said Wyoming Area Manager, Carlie Ronca. "Moving water downstream below Boysen Reservoir now will reduce the peak of downstream flows that would be experienced otherwise."

Recreationists are encouraged to use caution regarding changing reservoir levels and high river flows. Conditions can change rapidly during runoff and Reclamation is coordinating with other Federal, state, and local officials regarding reservoir levels and river flows.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page